Sailors Find Peace and Community at Weekly Interfaith Devotional at Naval Station Newport

The Sailors’ Devotional at Naval Station Newport in Rhode Island is making a big impact on the lives of U.S. Naval officer candidates. Every Friday night, as many as 200 sailors gather at the base’s Kay Hall auditorium for an hour of interfaith fellowship and spiritual upliftment.

Organized by members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the devotional welcomes sailors from various faiths and backgrounds. Dressed in their camouflage fatigues, the sailors set aside their weapons and gear to participate in the event, which offers a much-needed break from the rigors of their training programs.

The devotional features a mix of spiritual thoughts, discussions, and treats provided by missionaries and members. For many sailors, this weekly gathering is a ray of sunshine in an otherwise challenging and demanding environment. Officer Candidate Mikhail Scheel described it as a godsend that allows them to decompress and find solace amidst the stress.

The impact of the devotional goes beyond just providing a moment of peace. Ensign Jared Davenport, for example, started attending the devotional on a recommendation and eventually joined The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. His journey is just one of many stories of sailors finding comfort, support, and a sense of community through the devotional.

The success of the Sailors’ Devotional has caught the attention of Church leaders and military officials, who see it as a powerful missionary tool and a way to spread positivity and inclusivity. The hope is to replicate similar programs at other military bases to provide support and upliftment to servicemen and women across the country.

Overall, the Sailors’ Devotional is not just a weekly event; it’s a lifeline for many sailors, offering them a sense of belonging, spiritual nourishment, and a community of support during their time at Naval Station Newport.